Looking for practical gift ideas for your commuter friends in the Philippines? From dumpling bags to mini fans and pocketable raincoats, here’s the ultimate survival kit for everyday jeepney riders that you can give during birthdays or the upcoming Christmas!
Every day, thousands of us brave the wild world of public commuting. Jeepneys, buses, tricycles, MRTs—you name it, we’ve taken it. Personally, I’ve decided to go full-time PUJ (Public Utility Jeep) commuter instead of hailing Grab cars, because honestly, why spend all that money sitting in traffic when I can save the difference and invest it in a UITF? (Yes, that’s the sound of my future retirement fund quietly clapping for me.) I have even talked about this in the article below:
But let’s be real: commuting isn’t for the faint of heart. It’s sweaty, rainy, crowded, and sometimes feels like an Olympic sport. So if you’re looking for gift ideas for a commuter friend (or for yourself, because self-love is essential), here’s my ultimate commuter survival kit—fun, functional, and wallet-friendly.
1. Dumpling Bag with Carabiner
Dumpling may not be the official name for this bag but people call it such because of its resemblance to well-loved Chinese dumplings. I got mine from Uniqlo (photo and link below) in pink and gray and even put a carabiner into the zipper pull to add extra security. I just put the carabiner around the sling so that no swiper can just open the zipper and get my stuff while in a public vehicle. The great news is that the small dumpling / round bag is now on-sale at Uniqlo website and physical stores!
https://www.uniqlo.com/ph/en/products/E480807-000?colorCode=COL66
2. Coin Purse Charm for Your Bag
When the driver or “kundoktor” asks for the fare, you don’t want to keep them waiting. A cute coin purse on your bag makes it easy to access your coins. I found this “kilikili” bag on Lazada (link included) while looking for an affordable option to feature. I haven’t bought it, so readers should decide for themselves, but the reviews seem good.
3. Mini Rechargeable Fan
It’s breezy when riding a jeepney because the windows are open, letting in the city air as you travel through the busy streets. This can be an exciting experience with the mix of city scents and sounds. However, when the covers are down during heavy rain, it can feel like being inside an oven, trapping heat and humidity and making the ride uncomfortable. In these cases, a fan can be very helpful, creating a nice breeze that makes the journey more pleasant while you watch raindrops slide down the windows. My tried and tested rechargeable fan is JisuLife which I have give a review in the blog below:
4. Whistle
As a geologist also trained in disaster response and having mapped various geohazard prone areas in the country, I can confidently say a whistle should be one to bring as everyday carry (EDC). Shouting for help can strain your voice, especially in stressful situations, so a whistle is useful for getting attention without damaging your throat. This simple tool saves your energy and is louder, cutting through the noise during a disaster or simply when someone tries to hurt you in the street (it does happen). In urgent moments, having a way to signal for help can be crucial. Whistles are lightweight and easy to carry, making them important for anyone in unstable or disaster-prone areas. You can have the whistle engraved with your recipient’s name and even buy a necklace or lace to go with it or a cute key charm. I have mine in my company ID and a backup one in my bag, ALL THE TIME!
5. Umbrella
Because the weather app says “Sunny,” but PAGASA says “Haha, good luck!” it’s often a game of chance to plan outdoor activities in the Philippines. Yes, our weather can generally be so crazy that one can expect it to be sunny in the morning and be raining cats and dogs in the afternoon. This unpredictable nature of our climate not only keeps everyone on their toes but often leads to conversations about the quirks of Filipino weather. As such, giving a gift of an all-weather umbrella for yourself and your commuter friend is definitely one I would recommend. An umbrella is a trusty shield against sudden showers while still providing protection from the sun’s scorching rays during those unexpectedly sweltering days. It’s not just an accessory, but a must-have companion for anyone navigating the vibrant, yet sometimes tumultuous, weather patterns of the archipelago.
6. Pocketable Raincoat
On typhoon days when your umbrella can’t handle the rain, it’s important to find other ways to stay dry. Wearing a waterproof poncho can help keep you dry and shield you from strong winds. As you walk through puddles, this outfit not only protects you but also brings smiles from onlookers. Choosing this fun yet practical option helps you stand out while staying safe and cozy during bad weather. But you don’t need to look like a burrito when braving the heavy rains. I got one that’s pocketable and looks decent from Decathlon for only Php 550, photo below for reference.
7. Power Bank (a must-add!)
Your phone is your lifeline—for GCash payments, music to energize your commute, ebooks to keep you entertained while waiting, and letting your mom know you’re still alive in EDSA traffic, where time seems to stand still. It’s not just a communication tool; it’s your connection to the digital world, a source of entertainment, and a means to manage your finances all in one device. Given how much we rely on our smartphones for daily activities, never leave home without backup juice. Ensuring your battery is fully charged is crucial, as it enables you to seamlessly navigate between tasks and stay connected, no matter where your day takes you.
8. Foldable Water Bottle
Because sweating in the MRT is basically cardio, one might even consider it an unplanned workout session amidst the hustle and bustle of daily commutes. Staying hydrated is crucial during these intense moments, yet you don’t want to lug around a giant tumbler that can be cumbersome and heavy. Instead, opt for a sleek, portable water bottle that fits conveniently in your bag, allowing you to sip refreshingly without interrupting your flow. Hydration packs are also a fantastic alternative, providing easy access to water while keeping your hands free for your phone or book.
9. Noise-Cancelling Earphones (or at least decent earplugs)
Sometimes you just need to drown out the incessant noise of traffic, the unwanted chika from strangers engaging in gossip, or the guy playing K-pop at full blast on his portable speaker without a care for those around him. In moments like these, it becomes essential to create a personal oasis of calm amidst the chaos of urban life, where you can find solace and focus on your own thoughts, free from distractions that can disrupt your peace and concentration. I bought this Loop Engage while I was taking my graduate study as explained in the article below:
10. Small Pack of Wet Wipes or Alcohol Spray
Because you never really know what you’ve touched during your commute, whether it’s the metal pole in a crowded subway car, the button on the bus to signal your stop, or even the handrail on the staircase leading to the station. The thought of all the hands that have come before yours can be unsettling that’s why I always carry around a pack of tissue paper and a small bottle of alcohol especially after the pandemic. I super love the scent of Katinko lavender alcohol (photo below), I actually have these in large spray bottle and in small pocket-size one that I refill once emptied.
Final Thoughts
Commuting is unpredictable, but with the right tools (and the right sense of humor), you can turn it into a daily adventure instead of a daily headache. So if you’re looking for the perfect gift for the commuter in your life, consider any of these practical, quirky items. They might not make the traffic move faster—but they’ll make the ride a whole lot more bearable.
xoxo,
Grass
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